Credit: The Associated Press

STOCKHOLM — Malik Bendjelloul, the Swedish director of the acclaimed "Searching for Sugar Man" documentary, was widely known for his enthusiasm, kindness and high spirits — so the news Wednesday that he had taken his own life shocked colleagues around the world.

Bendjelloul's brother Johar Bendjelloul confirmed to The Associated Press that his 36-year-old younger brother killed himself Tuesday. He told daily Aftonbladet that his brother had struggled with depression for a short period.